BAUMHOLDER, Germany - In back of the formation are Soldiers with odd looking circle emblems where familiar Army rank would usually be located. On their faces, you can see signs of anxiety, excitement, confidence and even a little doubt. These new Soldiers are future officers here to participate in the Cadet Troop Leadership Training Program.
The CLTL program places U. S. Military Academy and Reserve Officer Training Corps cadets in Army units for up to four weeks at lieutenant-level leadership positions, helping them develop the attributes of personal integrity, honor and responsibility.
"This is an opportunity to understand the duties and responsibilities of an officer that I will be tasked with knowing," said Cadet Jorge Acevedo, assigned to 1st Inland Cargo Transfer Company, 18th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion and a native of Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.
Acevedo said his branch seems more compelling in light of what he's seen in Baumholder. "Being here I've learned there are many different fields in ordnance that I will have the opportunity to learn from," he said.
These temporary assignments provide cadets with a better understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of military art and science. They're important learning tools cadets can benefit from before becoming officers. The program features opportunities within operational and sustaining force units in Germany, Korea and U.S. Army installations nationwide.
"We're getting the chance to understand the duties of a platoon leader," said Cadet Margaret M. Johnston, assigned to 702nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 18th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion and a native of Pittsburg. "The opportunity to get such important training is invaluable because it's not available back in Reserve Officers' Training Corps back in school.
The objective of the CTLT program is to attract, motivate and prepare selected students to serve as commissioned officers in the regular Army, Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve.
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